Press Release

"This is the program that the American public trusts to ensure both that the maritime transportation industry is as safe as possible and that our natural resources are protected from the risks associated with waterborne transportation.  Our Subcommittee's responsibility is to ensure that the expectations of our nation are being met.

"Our hearing on marine safety was meant to spur the Coast Guard to what I believe is a long overdue examination not only of its management of the marine safety program, but of how the service will balance its traditional missions with its growing responsibilities in the area of homeland security. 

"I am encouraged by the candor that Admiral Thad Allen, Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, showed during our hearing in discussing the strain that the service is under and the challenges it faces in balancing its limited resources among all of its expanding responsibilities.

"Without exception, however, those who testified before the Subcommittee from the maritime industry expressed serious concerns about whether Coast Guard personnel can maintain their technical expertise in marine safety, eliminate delays in the issuance of mariners' credentials, and complete dozens of pending rulemakings. 

"These problems in the marine safety program are very serious - and they demand urgent resolutions to ensure that the program can effectively regulate the maritime industry without impeding the flow of commerce.

"I commend Admiral Allen's decision to name Rear Admiral Brian Salerno to serve as the Assistant Commandant for Marine Safety, Security, and Stewardship.  I am confident that Rear Admiral Salerno will bring the expertise and focus necessary to lead the marine safety program in effectively resolving the challenges it currently faces.

"I also look forward to receiving the report promised by Admiral Allen to the Subcommittee within 60 days laying out the concrete steps he will take to improve the marine safety program. 

"It is clear that increasing the number of civilians in the marine safety program will likely be key to strengthening the program, and I look forward to learning from Admiral Allen's report exactly how civilians will be effectively incorporated into the program.  I also expect continuing candor from Admiral Allen about the resources he needs to implement the marine safety program.

"Too often in the past, Congress has taken action to strengthen marine safety regimes only in response to catastrophes.  The goal of our Subcommittee is to take the steps needed now to ensure that the Coast Guard can prevent future catastrophes. 

"For that reason, I will reconvene the Subcommittee after receiving Admiral Allen's report to examine the findings in the report and to assess the specific steps Admiral Allen is taking to make sure the Coast Guard is prepared to ensure the safety of all aspects of America's 21st century maritime transportation industry."